Adrianna "Adri" England here, sharing my journey in the Healthcare Technology Management (HTM) industry, a field traditionally dominated by men. As I started
my path to leadership, I noticed that male voices often carried more weight in professional settings. In the early days of my career, I faced numerous meetings where it was a struggle just to be heard—I would often be spoken over or completely overlooked.
This dynamic began to shift about eight years into my HTM career, marking a turning point that would redefine my professional trajectory. It was then that I came under the mentorship of a CFO whose demeanor and intellect stood as a source of empowerment. She was not only a figure of authority but also a mentor who believed in the power of nurturing voices that yearned to be heard.
Empowerment Through Mentorship
Her mentorship was transformative. It went beyond the basics of professional development, displyaying the essence of leadership and the importance of voice. Under her guidance, I learned to articulate my thoughts with confidence and assert my presence in rooms that had once seemed not available to me. This experiecne sparked a deeper calling within me. Inspired by the impact of her mentorship, I began to mentor other women within our organization. The objective was clear: to create an environment where female voices are not just heard but are influential.
Changing the Narrative
The journey toward gender equality in leadership is paved with challenges and opportunities alike. It requires us to confront and dismantle the stereotypes that associate leadership with a specific gender. By showcasing women in leadership roles, we challenge the status quo and inspire a new generation to envision themselves in positions of power and influence.
Normalization of dual-gender leadership is not merely about representation; it's about shifting perceptions and altering the fabric of organizational culture. When leadership diversity becomes the norm, it no longer remains something unattainable for women to aspire to and achieve leadership roles.
A Call to Action
The path to equal opportunities in leadership is a collective endeavor. It creates a cultural shift that recognizes and values the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table. As we continue to mentor, support, and uplift each other, we pave the way for a future where leadership is defined by capability and vision, regardless of gender.
This journey is more than just a personal narrative; it's a testament to the power of mentorship, the importance of voice, and the relentless pursuit of equality. Let us all commit to being part of this transformative journey, fostering an inclusive environment where every aspiring leader, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive.
"We are immensely grateful to our sponsors—The College of Biomedical Equipment Technology, A.M. Bickford, and Talent Exclusive—for their support in making this blog possible. Their dedication to advancing the HTM industry is truly commendable. For more information about their contributions and services, please visit their websites:
For more podcast episodes, motivational videos, blogs, and newsletters, make sure to visit our website at HTM On The Line. We look forward to connecting with you".
Wonderful article, Adrianna, truthful, genuine, and well said!!!! As one of many women with a long history in the HTM industry , (that have swam in the shark pool of the boys club), it is refreshing to see strong women speak out with confidence, effect positive awareness, challenge the industry for positive change, and standout as a HTM champion!!
Diane Geddes